“Music education matters”. We heard this message loud and clear in the outpouring of support and enthusiatic participation from the Playing For Change community last month. While celebrating Music In Our Schools Month in March, many PFCF students, teachers, parents, community members, and supporters experienced the joy of learning and sharing music, and took action to be part of the positive change it can make. We’re excited to share some highlights with you:
► Students from our partnership program with Celerity Schools showcased what they’ve been learning in their African Drumming class by performing at their schools throughout Los Angeles
► 11 PFCF supporters from Australia, France, Germany, Nepal and the United States created their own fundraising campaigns and raised a total of $2,670.
► The rock-n-roll legend himself, Carlos Santana, signed and donated a Fender guitar for our charity auction. Our thanks for Carlos for being a great supporter of music education and to everyone who bid on the guitar! The funds raised will go a long way towards supporting PFCF music programs.
Music in Our Schools Month provided a great opportunity to focus on the impact of music education and celebrate the progress being made—but there is still a lot of work to do! As long as we keep working together, we can continue to grow and create more opportunities for children in need to experience joy, and a better understanding of their world, through music. Thanks to everyone who played, taught, performed, campaigned, and donated to support Music in Our Schools. Together, we are making a difference.
All in, more than $8,000 was raised which will provide one year’s compensation for 5 teachers. We are still seeking support for 20 teachers’ salaries in 2015. Will you help ensure the music stays in our schools this year?
Shauna Murray